Obituary

Joseph Crawford Hilton, 92, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Bellingham, WA on September 13th with loved ones nearby.

Joe was born in Bellingham and spent his entire life there and in nearby Birch Bay.  He lived a full and rewarding life and always enjoyed building things.  From building go carts as a kid, to fixing up homes to rent and sell as an early adult, building his own summer home, raising a family, or building his business, he always had a few projects underway.

He played trumpet in a dance band and took over running Hilton’s Shoes at a young age when his father passed away early in his life.  He expanded that business to include a women’s clothing store collectively known as Hilton’s Shoes and Apparel, was in the Washington National Guard and an active member in Rotary.

He loved to hunt (with his canine assistant Duffy), fish and golf which led to fun stories around the dinner table about the adventures of the day.  He was known for his often too-direct style of communication, but was a jokester with a very warm heart and always made time to help others.

He is survived by his loving wife of 71 years, Helen, his children Joe (Donna), Brian, Holly and Scott, grandchildren Jessica and Christina (Josh), and his sister Lois.  He was preceded in death by his sister Margaret.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, September 20th at 2 p.m. at Immanuel Bible Church, 2000 W. North St., Bellingham, WA. 98225.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Immanuel Bible Church, the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.